The world of automotive engineering and performance tuning is a fascinating realm, where the pursuit of power and precision knows no bounds. Today, we delve into the heart of a legendary engine, the Mitsubishi 4G63, and explore how it continues to captivate and challenge enthusiasts even after two decades.
The Legacy of the 4G63
The Mitsubishi 4G63 engine has earned its place in the pantheon of import performance icons. Its journey began with the Evo 8, a car that left an indelible mark on the American automotive scene. Despite the passage of time, this engine platform remains a force to be reckoned with, proving that its potential is far from exhausted.
Crafting Reliability at Four-Digit Horsepower
At Arlington Machine in Riverside, California, shop owner Aaron Yaghoubian and his team are masters of their craft. They understand that building an engine capable of delivering four-digit horsepower figures is not just about throwing money at the latest aftermarket trends. It's a meticulous process that demands careful machine work, quality components, and an unwavering attention to detail.
A Street-Driven Beast
The latest creation from Arlington Machine is a testament to their expertise. This Evo 8 4G63 is designed for the street, yet it boasts the capability to sustain an astonishing 1,100 to 1,200 horsepower. And here's the kicker: it retains much of the factory architecture.
Preserving the Factory Foundation
Yaghoubian emphasizes the importance of starting with a solid foundation. The block, a stock 4G63 Mitsubishi casting, undergoes a thorough inspection and preparation process. Every detail is scrutinized, from checking for cracks to performing proprietary oiling modifications.
Critical Fastener Selection
Fastener choice is another critical aspect. Yaghoubian explains, "On these engines, it's vital to stud the bottom end. This particular build uses ARP L19 studs to handle the increased power."
The Heart of the Build
Inside the meticulously prepared block lies a powerful combination. An 88mm Callies knife-edged billet crankshaft, paired with 156mm Callies Ultra Enforcer I-beam connecting rods, forms the backbone of the engine. The rods are unique in the 4G63 market, featuring massive 7/16" rod bolts, which Yaghoubian believes is a first for this engine type.
Knife-Edged Crankshafts: A High-Performance Staple
Knife-edged crankshafts have long been associated with high-performance racing engines. They reduce rotating mass and allow for more efficient oil shedding, enabling quicker revving. Callies takes this a step further with an ultra-polished finish that enhances oil control.
A Custom Rotating Assembly
The rotating assembly is completed with custom-spec forged pistons from Arlington Machine. These pistons feature full skirts, lateral gas ports, a ceramic crown coating, moly skirt coating, and an upgraded ring package tailored for high-boost applications.
Factory Parts: Still Relevant
One of the most intriguing aspects of this build is the retention of numerous factory Mitsubishi components. For instance, the cylinder head, a stock Evo 8 casting, remains unported, yet it has proven capable of handling over 1,000 horsepower.
Valvetrain Upgrades
The valvetrain receives a Kiggly beehive spring kit with titanium retainers, designed to handle approximately 55 psi of boost. GSC S3 camshafts, with roughly 280 degrees of duration, further enhance performance. GSC oversized stainless intake valves and Super Alloy exhaust valves improve tolerance to elevated exhaust gas temperatures.
Confidence in Factory Components
Yaghoubian praises the quality of Mitsubishi's factory components, noting that they often outperform aftermarket alternatives. The timing system, for example, uses an OEM Evo 9 timing belt with Kevlar reinforcement, which Yaghoubian describes as "fail-proof." The same philosophy applies to the oil pump, where a modified stock OEM pump is used if the customer's budget doesn't allow for a dry sump system.
Balancing Performance and Reliability
Head sealing is another area where Arlington Machine strikes a balance between factory engineering and strategic upgrades. By using an OEM Evo 9 five-layer MLS head gasket and a stainless steel o-ring machined into the block deck, the engine can safely handle extreme cylinder pressure and boost levels.
Street-Legal Powerhouse
This engine package, when paired with the right turbocharger combination, can support an impressive 1,100 to 1,200 horsepower. What's remarkable is that these power figures, once exclusive to dedicated race cars, are now achievable in street-driven vehicles.
A Holistic Approach to Performance
Yaghoubian emphasizes that the engine's potential extends beyond the long block. The supporting systems, including oil pans, fuel systems, and turbochargers, must all work in harmony to safely utilize the engine's power. Arlington Machine's philosophy is about building engines with proven machining practices, carefully selected components, and realistic expectations for the complete vehicle package.
The Enduring Appeal of the 4G63
For a platform as iconic as the Mitsubishi 4G63, this balanced approach ensures its continued dominance in the import performance world. It's a testament to the engine's versatility and the expertise of shops like Arlington Machine that such impressive power figures can be achieved while retaining much of the factory architecture.
Final Thoughts
The Mitsubishi 4G63 engine, with its rich history and enduring appeal, continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of import performance. As Yaghoubian puts it, "1,000 horsepower is the new 500." And with shops like Arlington Machine at the helm, the future of this legendary engine looks brighter than ever.
